Ford Kuga
It took Ford a while to enter the compact SUV market with its Kuga, but it was worth the wait. Both four and front-wheel-drive versions are available, and Ford's stylish SUV majors on good looks and driver appeal, but it does so at the expense of some practicality. Its cabin is a snug fit for four adults, and there is only limited storage on offer. It feels like a tall Focus to drive, and is a strong contender in the SUV class. It's not cheap, though, as it's priced to rival Volkswagen's Tiguan.
-
Pros:
- Good value and well-equipped
- Economical diesel engines
- Spacious interior
-
Cons:
- Inferior automatic gearboxes
- Too many buttons inside
- Not fun to drive
The new Ford Kuga is the American car maker's first compact SUV to be sold globally. Due on sale in the UK early in 2013, the Kuga will offer more interior space than its predecessor and lower running costs. It will also offer a larger boot and a hands-free tailgate that can be operated by waving your foot under the rear of the car. Expect the the new Kuga to come with four-wheel drive as standard and to be priced from around £21,000.
-
Pros:
- Neat styling inside and out
- Enjoyable to drive
- Economical diesel
-
Cons:
- Limited practicality
- Not designed for off-road use
- Quite expensive
The Kuga offers a choice of two engines, front or four-wheel drive and two trim levels. It's the 2.0 TDCi diesel that makes the most sense in the Kuga, with respectable performance on the road and at the fuel pumps. Underlining the limited appeal of the 2.5-litre turbo petrol engine is that it's only available in range-topping Titanium trim with 4x4-only - the diesel is offered in Zetec or Titanium trims with front or four-wheel drive. The Kuga received a very subtle facelift in 2010 with an updated grille and bumpers.
Next steps
Help Me Choose
perfect car, whatever your budget
Find a new car review
All models reviewed in plain English, with detailed specifications of every new car on sale in the UK